A Guide to Common Foot Conditions
Foot pain is not normal, and most foot problems are easier to treat when they are caught early. This guide from Foot Centers of Maryland explains the most common foot and ankle conditions we see at our Baltimore, Glen Burnie, Timonium, and Reisterstown, MD offices, what causes them, and how they are treated. Follow the links to learn more about each condition in depth.
Request an AppointmentBunions
A bunion is a structural deformity caused by abnormal biomechanics in which the first metatarsal drifts away from the second, pushing the big toe toward the second toe and creating a painful bump on the inside of the foot. Conservative care with anti-inflammatory medication, wider shoes, bunion shields, and orthotics can often relieve pain and delay surgery. When surgery is needed, many patients return to comfortable shoes within six to eight weeks. Learn more about bunions.
Hammertoes
Hammertoes develop when abnormal biomechanics cause a toe to contract at one or more joints. Early on, the deformity is flexible, but over time it can become rigid. The prominent knuckle rubs against shoes and often forms a painful corn. Trimming the corn provides temporary relief, while rigid, painful hammertoes may need surgical correction. Learn more about hammertoes.
Corns and Calluses
Corns and calluses are not soft tissue problems and do not have a “root” that can be removed. They form because of abnormal pressure from the underlying bone, so they return no matter how often they are trimmed. Padding, injections for an inflamed bursa, orthotics, and, when needed, correction of the underlying deformity provide lasting relief. Learn more about corns and calluses.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown nails occur when the edge of the nail curves into the skin. Improper trimming, tight shoes, and injury can make them worse. Mild cases are red and tender, while severe cases become swollen and infected. Removing the offending nail corner gives prompt relief, and a permanent procedure can prevent chronic ingrown nails. Learn more about ingrown toenail treatment.
Heel Pain and Plantar Fasciitis
Heel pain is most often caused by excessive pull of the plantar fascia where it attaches to the heel bone. Pain is typically worst with the first steps in the morning or after rest. Treatment includes strapping, anti-inflammatories, injections, orthotics, and advanced therapies, with surgery reserved for stubborn cases. A heel spur alone does not change treatment but shows how long the problem has been present. Learn more about heel pain and plantar fasciitis.
Plantar Warts
Warts are caused by a virus in the skin. They spread by direct contact and can multiply and grow deep into the bottom of the foot. Early warts respond to topical treatment and debridement, while larger or stubborn warts may need excision or advanced options such as Swift Microwave Therapy. Learn more about warts.
Toenail Fungus and Athlete’s Foot
Fungal infections can affect the skin (tinea pedis) or the nails (onychomycosis). Untreated athlete’s foot can blister and break the skin, opening the door to bacterial infection. Early skin infections respond to topical creams, while nail fungus often requires prescription treatment over 6 to 12 months for a clear nail to grow in. Learn more about toenail fungus and athlete’s foot.
Pediatric Foot Problems
In-toeing is the most common foot problem in children and often comes from limited rotation at the hip, causing an in-toe gait and flattened arches. Many infants outgrow positional deformities, but significant or structural problems need treatment, and the earlier it begins, the better the results. Learn more about pediatric foot problems.
Ankle Sprains and Fractures
Inversion sprains happen when the foot turns in and stretches or tears the ligaments on the outside of the ankle. Fractures usually result from falls, accidents, or hard blows. Both require proper diagnosis, often with X-rays, and immobilization to heal correctly and prevent chronic problems. Learn more about ankle sprains and foot and ankle fractures.
Arthritis, Foot Odor, and Geriatric Foot Problems
Rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis commonly affect the joints of the foot and ankle, especially after age 45. Foot odor results from bacteria breaking down excess sweat. Older adults face many of the same problems as younger patients, often complicated by poor circulation, arthritis, or nerve problems, but your feet should not hurt simply because you are older. Learn more about arthritic foot conditions, foot odor, and geriatric foot care.
Diabetic Foot Problems
Most diabetic foot problems stem from nerve damage, infection, or poor circulation, with deformities and minor injuries contributing to sores. Regular exams and protective footwear are essential. Learn more about diabetic foot care.
The Role of Orthotics
Many of these conditions are caused or worsened by abnormal foot mechanics during walking. Prescription custom orthotics realign the foot, reduce pain, and slow the progression of structural deformities. View the complete list of conditions we treat.
Foot Conditions FAQs
What are the most common foot problems?
Common foot problems include bunions, hammertoes, corns and calluses, ingrown toenails, heel pain, plantar warts, toenail fungus, athlete’s foot, ankle sprains, and arthritis.
Is foot pain normal?
No. Foot pain is usually a sign of an underlying problem such as abnormal foot mechanics, injury, or inflammation, and it should be evaluated.
Why do my corns and calluses keep coming back?
Corns and calluses are caused by pressure from the underlying bone. They return after trimming unless the pressure is relieved with padding, orthotics, or correction of the deformity.
Can bunions and hammertoes be treated without surgery?
Yes. Wider shoes, padding, orthotics, and anti-inflammatory care often relieve symptoms. Surgery is considered when pain persists or the deformity becomes rigid.
Do children grow out of in-toeing?
Many children outgrow mild positional in-toeing, but significant or structural problems need treatment, and early care leads to better results.
How long does it take to clear toenail fungus?
With prescription treatment, it typically takes 6 to 12 months for a healthy nail to fully grow in.
When should I see a podiatrist?
See a podiatrist if pain lasts more than a few days, follows an injury, limits your activity, or comes with swelling, numbness, or a wound that is slow to heal.
Get Answers About Your Foot Condition
Our podiatrists can diagnose your symptoms and recommend the right treatment. Call (410) 844-4700 - Overlea Office, Mercy Office, Reisterstown Office, Glen Burnie Office, or Lutherville Office or request an appointment at our Overlea, Mercy, Glen Burnie, Lutherville, or Reisterstown office.